we're ready to help. >>> first there was sandy, then a nor'easter. residents in the northeast can't catch a break. 280,000 customers still without power across the region. fema says that more than $400 million in assistance has been approved for victims and is already in the hands of survivors or on the way. cnn's national correspondent susan candiotti is in one of the hardest hit places in the northeast, the far rockaway neighborhood of queens. sus susan? >> reporter: it's where you don't want to be when the power goes out, a 22-story high-rise where a lot of seniors live. there are no working elevors, the only way up is one step at a time. we met one woman who has been trudging up those stairs every day. all bundled up, albina williams manages a smile before the 70 years old, yes, 70, makes a twice daily climb up six flights dragging four gallons of water and a grocery cart and a bucket to her apartment. is it okay if i help you? >> yes. >> reporter: you're using this for what? >> flushing the toilet. >> reporter: i can't imagine how you carry that